It’s easy to spot this silvery Hilton; it sits directly across from the entrance to Universal Studios Hollywood. In fact, with close to 500 rooms and a massive buffet-style restaurant built inside the soaring atrium, there’s nothing inconspicuous about this place. Rooms are tastefully done in cream and mahogany (many have stunning views), and suites add extra comforts like a parlor and a chaise lounge. The hotel's many ammenities include a gym, pool, sight-seeing tours and more—plus, it's pet-friendly, meaning you can bring Fido along on vacation. Have a couple kids in tow (of course you do, you're staying near Universal)? Family packages are offered as well, along with cribs, a children's menu and weekly children's activities.
The colossal Universal Studios entity, in business since 1912, taps into every tourist’s desire to not just visit Hollywood, but penetrate its very core. From new attractions like Walking Dead and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, to classic backlot studio tours and the always-exhilarating Jurassic Park ride, the theme park is a hive of activity, and its surrounding hotels make it easy for guests to get to and from the attractions (almost all have free shuttles). Inside the park itself, there are two resorts with breezy outdoor pool areas, or you can opt for something more casual at one of the retro inns along Ventura Boulevard. Wherever you end up, chances are you'll fall under the Hollywood spell.